This is the third and final lightfastness test of the Lukas Aquarelle watercolor paints (original post, first update, second update). The reason for ending the test is twofold, the test strip was in the way of a window I wanted to start opening, and after ten full months of Arizona sun the verdict is in.

I first hung the test strip in January 2016 in a south facing window. Expecting the paint to be faded out before the first 100℉ (38℃) day.

The summer did some damage but not as much as I expected. The Alizarin Crimson suffered the most. It is also the only 2-star rated color in the bunch and performed as expected in comparison to the other 3-starred colors.

[caption id=“attachment_2857” align=“aligncenter” width=“480”]

The test card after the right half was exposed to Arizona sunlight for nine months.[/caption]

Overall the scan is accurate, and shows that the Lukas colors will hold up to sunlight over an long hot summer in the desert.

For reference, heres the card before it was cut and half was hung in the window.

[caption id=“attachment_2856” align=“aligncenter” width=“480”]

The original test card before any sunlight exposure.[/caption]

These are the original color labels that show the lightfastness rating. The stars can be seen to the right of the color number at the bottom of the label.

[caption id=“attachment_1495” align=“aligncenter” width=“640”]

Lukas paints and labels.[/caption]

I’m satisfied that the Lukas Aquarelle 3-star watercolors are lightfast enough for any project that will see sunlight. The 2-star colors will need some protection.